US President Joe Biden has honour British-born rock legend Elton John.
The President and First Lady Jill Biden honored Sir Elton’s remarkable musical and philanthropic legacy, and celebrated the healing power of music to an audience of everyday history makers including teachers and students, nurses, LGBTQ+ advocates, military families, mental health advocates, and more.
Sir Elton delighting the audience by playing several of his smash hits including “Tiny Dancer,” “Rocketman,” and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on |Me,” on the White House South Lawn, before the President and First Lady surprised him by presenting him with the National Humanities Medal.
“I’m honored to receive the National Humanities Medal from President Biden and the First Lady during such a spectacular event at the White House,” said Sir Elton John.
“It’s been emotional for me to be recognized for the achievements of the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Since I founded the Foundation at my kitchen table in Atlanta 30 years ago, I made a commitment not to leave anyone behind and will continue on this mission.
“We are striving for a future where people of all races, ethnicities, nationalities, sexual orientations, and gender identities have the opportunity to live free from AIDS, stigma, injustice and maltreatment – and I’m so grateful recognition likes this brings us a step closer to making that a reality.”
